Prospect Spotlight: TJ Pugh (2021)
TJ Pugh is a name that you will want to start to know. One of the best Sophomores (2021) in Mid-Ohio, Pugh will be on many college coaches task list very soon. Photo Credit: WMFD The 6’5 Sophomore is in…
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Continue ReadingTJ Pugh is a name that you will want to start to know. One of the best Sophomores (2021) in Mid-Ohio, Pugh will be on many college coaches task list very soon.
Photo Credit: WMFDThe 6’5 Sophomore is in his first year at Shelby HS, where he is already the best player on his team. One of the best players in the MOAC, Pugh can affect the game in many ways. With pretty solid upside, he has a lot of room to grow.
Averaging around 16 PPG, the young Whippet is a walking double-double any night, averaging 7.8 rebounds a contest. Besides being a solid rebounder, the young man is also an above average defender. Recording a couple steals nightly, TJ has a knack for disturbing the passing lane. His 6’5 frame gives him the ability to defend well inside, also capable on the perimeter.
Some of the best footwork I have seen from an underclassmen, the 6’5 Sophomore is ahead of his time. With a soft touch, Pugh finishes well in the lane. A very versatile player, that can play multiple postitions. The Wing-Forward also can shoot it a bit, but that was an area of his game that he wants to work on the most, he mentioned to me. At this level, so far he hasn’t had to rely on the outside shot, but it is in his arsenal. The versatile 2021′ makes his teammates better.
Since TJ’s move to Shelby, the biggest difference he mentioned to me was “our team gets along well on and off the court, and take basketball serious”. It sounds like that’s the chemistry you want on a team, and the Sophomore is right in the middle of it.
I asked TJ what the biggest difference in his game from Freshman to Sophomore years was. And, he said his “jumping ability and quickness” have improved the most. Which, is key in many perspectives. Also, I asked him what his biggest plans for the summer were. TJ answered “ I plan to win some big AAU tournaments, and beat some good teams. Summer is a chance to play in front of college Coaches, so it’s very important to me.” If there is one thing the Sophomore is lacking, it sure isn’t confidence.
Watching TJ play earlier this week, he had a tremendous outing. Leading his team from down 18, him and his teammates didn’t give up, almost pulling off the comeback. The stud wing had 21 points, nine rebounds and 3 steals, on an efficient night. His take-over ability stood out, as he knew when his team needed a bucket.
Before long, I believe Low-Major Division One programs, as well as Division Two colleges will be in on the stud Pugh. Schools should get involved early. But, It will be interesting to see how the gym rat develops over his next couple years of high school hoops.